Player's for Peace

Old Lady Yoga AliK July 10, 2026

2026-07-10T16:47:55.715-07:00

https://youtu.be/vTr69lpP37A?si=nglFrqPqhJhPdpIt

Novak Djokovic lost. I watched and worked on some stuff on my computer. My old lady yoga took over an hour to upload and wasn't finished before the match ended. Wimbledon has been a blur.

Click the image to like and subscribe to Old Lady Yoga!!

I really like this workout because I really really really wish is crushed it. But, I'm only going to do it one more time. This is one of many #AliKamenova workouts that I have done over the years and felt like I should do it over an over...Well, now I am doing just that with 15 preselected videos.. But I think this was the 3rd of 4th time for this one, so only one more and then I will move on to the next.

Old Lady Yoga AliK by @alfasunshine

2026-06-27T20:54:29.000-07:00

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAMkhqma-lzg&si=oCroVEPPZ5GDO2R0

Only five more subscribers needed to be able to stream live... Hint hint!

Yoga Is The Fountain of Youth

2026-04-07T12:17:00.000-07:00

Originally Published Feb 19, 2026

Lauren Howard, Intermediate Yoga, Spring 2026

Yoga Reflection Assignment: Exploring a Yama or Niyama

For my reflection I have chosen Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to something greater) because I believe this is the most important category on the list. I believe that acknowledging and paying attention to how you feel about your personal Ishvarapranidhana is an indication of how well connected you are with joy. I call this a sense of being on the right path or in alignment with all the best parts of life. When your words, actions and thoughts are positive you surrender to the well-being that abounds in the Universe.

My perception of this principle shows up on my mat every time I step up or sit down to do some yoga. My dominant intent is to be present in my body and connected to the strength in my body that is connected to the energy that helps me breathe. I trust in the Universe to lead me through the movements and enrich my body mind and spirit.

To me surrendering to something greater is participating in my life with the wellbeing that abounds in the Universe at the forefront of my perception. When I am outside of class the strength, flexibility, and balance that I seek in my yoga practice gives me more clarity so that I can shape my beliefs to support my life goals in my everyday relationships. In general, the joy of living, paying attention to the wellbeing that supports all life, is a good practice for right action.

Any resistance that I have to Ishvarapranidhana shows up as negative attitudes and irritations to conditions. This is the work. Life is full of conditions that are unpleasing on grand and small levels. Staying focused on the good, one day at a time, trusting that wellbeing abounds, and doing my best to get positive momentum helps me stay on and recognize my right path. The things you focus on get bigger. Focusing on the good is my dominant intent…It is not always easy and the easier it gets the easier it gets.

Showing up and doing my best for things that are important to me is the most practical step I take this week and this semester to apply the Ishvarapranidhana principle in my yoga practice. I will be stronger in body mind and spirit through the exercise and practice of increasing flexibility, strength and balance on my yoga mat. Yoga is the fountain of youth because it connects us to the well-being that abounds in the Universe.

My additional $.02

Let’s Connect — However You Need Me Most

Whether your next goal is an unforgettable luxury vacation, a fun and flavorful kitchen upgrade, or expert guidance in buying or selling real estate, I’d love to be your go-to resource.

✈️ Travel / Regent Seven Seas Cruises:
If luxury cruising, bucket-list destinations, and stress-free travel planning are calling your name, let’s chat. I’d love to help you explore the perfect voyage and create a travel experience you’ll never forget.

🍳 Pampered Chef:
If you’re ready to simplify mealtime, discover amazing kitchen tools, or host a fun cooking experience (virtual or in-person), I’ve got you covered. Great food, less stress, and a little fun along the way.

🏡 Real Estate:
If you’re thinking about buying, selling, investing, or simply want to understand today’s market, I’m always happy to be a trusted resource. No pressure — just honest guidance and smart strategies.

No matter which path you’re on, I’m here to help. Reach out anytime — I’d love to connect!

Wishing you a great week!

Lauren Howard | Real Estate Advisor
30+ Years Experience • Listings • Buyers • Investors
Direct. Strategic. Results-Driven.

805-291-0867 text or call

Realtor, Lauren Howard...Travel is Back In the Mix

2026-04-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Originally Published Feb 17, 2026

Why Travel Is Back in the Mix — and Why I’m Focusing on Regent Seven Seas Cruises

I’m still actively selling real estate and Pampered Chef — and now, I’ve added travel back into the mix. I’ve always loved connecting people with great opportunities and experiences, and honestly, I can sell just about anything. But for the next few months, I’ve decided to focus intentionally on one brand: Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Lately, I’ve been diving deep into their voyages, and I’m truly impressed. Their ships are intentionally smaller, which allows them to sail some really unique and fascinating routes. This means access to incredible destinations that larger ships simply can’t reach, along with more immersive experiences, longer port stays, and thoughtfully curated itineraries.

What really stands out is how purposeful their journeys feel. Instead of rushing from one crowded port to the next, Regent focuses on meaningful travel — deeper cultural connections, enriching excursions, and seamless luxury every step of the way. From hidden European gems to exotic, far-flung destinations, their itineraries are designed for travelers who want both adventure and comfort.

Luxury cruising isn’t just about beautiful ships and five-star service — though Regent certainly delivers that. It’s about ease, elegance, and unforgettable moments. Imagine unpacking once, enjoying world-class dining, personalized service, and waking up in a new destination almost every day. That’s the kind of travel experience I love helping people discover.

So I’m curious — have you ever gone on a luxury cruise, or is it something you’ve thought about? If elevated, stress-free travel sounds appealing, I’d love to help you explore what’s possible.

Let’s Connect — However You Need Me Most

Whether your next goal is an unforgettable luxury vacation, a fun and flavorful kitchen appliance upgrade, or expert guidance in buying or selling real estate, I’d love to be your go-to resource.

No matter which path you’re on, I’m here to help. Reach out anytime — I’d love to connect!

Lauren Howard | Real Estate Advisor
30+ Years Experience • Listings • Buyers • Investors
Direct. Strategic. Results-Driven.

805-291-9867 text or call

How to Hire a Moving Company

2026-04-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

Origilally Published

Jan 26, 2026

How to Hire a Moving Company

Questions to ask: Are you certified by the ICC? Do you charge by the pound or by the hour? How much insurance do you carry? Are there any items you charge extra to move, such as china, pianos, pool tables and the like? Are you bonded? Can I call to find out the location of my things during the move?

Once you’ve hired a mover, there’s still more work to be done.

* Make yourself a checklist of things to do every week for eight weeks prior to the move. Stay as organized as possible.

* Ask your moving company to assign three movers to you—two to load and unload and one to guard the truck to prevent theft.

* Talk to your insurance agent about liability. Does your current homeowner’s policy cover your possessions during a move? Moving companies’ basic insurance coverage usually allows a set amount per pound per item, and it’s usually not enough, so find out how much the company carries and then buy extra insurance if necessary. Remember that most companies don’t accept liability for breakage of any items you pack yourself.

* Confirm the arrangements with the moving company a couple of days before your move.

My .$02 Let’s Make Moving a Breeze, One Bucket of Paint at a Time!

When it comes to moving, I’m all about turning the chaotic circus of boxes and bubble wrap into a smooth, graceful ballet of real estate transactions. Who knew juggling furniture could be so elegant? As your dedicated realtor, I promise to help you dodge those banana peels on the path to your new home!

This year, I’m on a mission to refresh my vendor's list. I’d love to sprinkle in some recommendations from you as well! So when I catch you on the phone—or if I’m lucky enough to bump into you face-to-face (no need to run away, I don't bite)—I will be asking:

- Who's your favorite CPA? The one who makes taxes feel like a walk in the park rather than a trek through a zombie-infested alley?
- Do you have a junk removal service that you’d rate “FIVE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐” for making your clutter disappear faster than your favorite snack during movie night?
- What about landscapers? You know, the ones who can turn a desert into the Garden of Eden with just a sprinkle of imagination (and some serious gardening skills)?

Plumbers? Yep, those magical beings capable of fixing a leaky sink before you can even find the nearest plunger!

Feel free to hit “reply” and share your thoughts—or send me a postcard if you prefer some good old-fashioned mail that won’t end up in someone’s junk folder (wink wink).

I’ll be giving you a ring soon! Thanks for being the wonderful human you are and for putting up with my endless chat about houses and vendors. You’re the real MVP!

Best,

Lauren Howard, LPT Realty

805-291-0867 Texting is great! So is calling.

Your Realtor Extraordinaire 🏡

Build Home Equity Faster

2026-04-07T12:06:00.000-07:00

Originally Published Nov 16, 2025

Build Home Equity Faster

Equity is the part of your property that you actually own. If you own property that’s worth $250,000, and you have a mortgage with a remaining loan balance of $100,000, your equity in the property is $150,000. Repeat home buyers usually rely to some extent on the equity in their current home to help buy their next home. The more equity you have, the larger the possible down payment for the trade-up home.

Home equity also equals security. Especially at the beginning of a mortgage loan, so little of your payment goes to principal that equity builds maddeningly slowly.

Naturally, building home equity comes at a price, usually in the form of larger payments. If building home equity means incurring debt to make ends meet, then you’ve defeated the purpose of building equity in the first place.

One way is to make additional principal payments. Additional principal payments make sense when you save more on your mortgage interest expense on an after-tax basis than you would earn on your investments on an after-tax basis. If you are able to deduct your mortgage interest from your income taxes and your marginal federal income tax rate is 27 percent or higher, then your after-tax cost of mortgage debt is between 3 and 4 percent.

For instance, if you earn 4 percent pretax on a five-year CD, and you're in the 27-percent bracket for federal income taxes, the after-tax return is less than 3 percent.

Before you start making additional principal payments, use one of the many amortization calculators you can find on the internet to do the math—how much interest you would save if you made additional principal payments, and how much it would shorten your loan and increase your home equity.

The other way to build home equity faster is to refinance. Recently, the reason most people have refinanced is to lock in a lower interest rate and/or lower their monthly payment. But you can also refinance to shorten the term of your mortgage, which builds equity.

If you had a $200,000 30-year ARM at 8.13 percent and replaced it with a 15-year fixed rate loan at 6.75 percent, your monthly payment would go from $1485.69 to $1769.82.

Most sellers use part of their equity to pay selling costs, such as brokerage commissions and transfer taxes. Also, if you are delinquent on your property taxes, or have other liens secured against the property, such as an IRS tax lien, these would have to be paid at closing.

My $.02 These Home Equity Strategies and PMI

If you bought your home with a down payment less than 20% you most likely have the additional cost of Private Mortgage Insurance. Banks issuing these loans will remove the PMI payments once your loan to value on your home reaches 80% or greater. This is where I come into play. As a Realtor I can provide a CMA or if your lender has a more formal requirement I can do a Broker Price Opinion. Banks hire realtors to do BPO's for refinances and foreclosures. The banks usually pay us a fee that is about half or even less than an appraiser will charge. But guess what? I expect to get listings from the banks that I do BPO's for so it is a little different relationship than an appraiser who works at point of sale only.

I send out CMA's for free all the time. I like doing them and technology makes it super easy. Any time you would like a professional opinion of your home's value I am happy to do it. You know why? Because I know when you know someone who is thinking about moving you will have my back and refer them to me. Text or call me at 805-291-0867 or email me on my website at info@santabarbarahomes.com

Thank you.

Top Picks for SB County Buyers..It's Party Time

2026-04-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Sep 25, 2025

Hosting a fun Pampered Chef event this week and I wanted to invite you to join in on the excitement with Table by Pampered Chef! 🎉 It's their awesome secure party platform where you can find kitchen tips, recipes, product demos, and more! Plus, you'll be entered to win a Season's Best cookbook when you click this link: Can't wait to hang out with you there! 🍳 #PamperedChef #TableByPamperedChef

Homes for Sale in Santa Barbara County

North County Homes under $700,000

Santa Ynez Valley 4 Bedroom Homes

Top 16 Picks in the SBMLS

Contact Lauren Howard Real Estate for a personal tour. 805-291-0867 text or call

Home Inspections...Best Practices by Lauren Howard

2026-04-02T13:10:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Jul 26, 2025

Home Inspections

If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to understand what a home inspection entails and how it affects the sale or purchase of a house.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the structure and systems of a home by a neutral third party. Basically, it shows you what’s wrong with the property and if it is serious enough to prevent a sale. (Note: An inspection does not concern code violations and therefore does not guarantee that the home is free of them.)

The three main points of the inspection are to evaluate the physical condition of the home, identify items in need of repair or replacement, and estimate the remaining useful life of the major systems, equipment, structure and finishes.

An inspector cannot report on defects that are not visible, such as defects hidden behind finished walls or beneath carpeting, and inaccessible areas. Seasonally inoperable systems (swamp coolers, air conditioning, furnaces) will not be turned on during the inspection.

Hiring an Inspector

To hire an inspector, get recommendations from your Realtor, or from friends and family. You can also find home inspectors in the phone book under “Home Inspection Services.” When interviewing inspectors, be sure to ask for references and memberships in professional associations. Find out about the inspector’s professional training and experience.

It’s a good idea to be present during the inspection for a few reasons: you can ask the inspector questions during the inspection, the inspector will have the opportunity to point out areas of potential trouble, and many inspectors also will offer maintenance tips as the inspection progresses.

Making Suggested Repairs

The seller is not required to make any repairs or replacements. However, the buyer can use the inspection report as a negotiating tool. For instance, if certain repairs or replacements are made, the buyer might offer to pay more, or if they’re not, the buyer can bid lower.

Costs and Time Involved

The inspector’s most important priority is accuracy, and accuracy takes time. The chances of mistakes are more likely if the inspector rushes through. Your inspection may take between two and five hours. Older homes take longer than newer ones.

Expect your inspection to cost from $200-$500 depending on size. It may be one of the most important investments you make when buying a home.

My $.02

If you are handy and do all of your own home repairs, you can probably do your own home inspection. If you are not handy at all, don't even think about doing your own home inspection. Usually if there is a major system problem with the plumbing, heating, electrical, roof, or major appliance included with the sale...best practice is always to get a professional handyman or contractor involved. Count the costs!

Interest Rate Buydowns

2026-04-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted May 29, 2025

Interest Rate Buydowns

What is an interest-rate buydown?

It’s a tool to help you qualify for a larger loan and purchase a higher-priced house than you could under normal circumstances.

A buydown allows you to pay extra points up front in return for a lower interest rate for the first few years.

The good news: the extra points are tax deductible.

Often, people relocating for employment obtain buydowns because employers often pay the extra points as part of a relocation package.

Buydowns are a financing technique used to reduce the monthly payment for the borrower during the initial years of the loan.

Under some buydown plans, a residential developer, builder or the seller will make subsidy payments (in the form of points) to the lender that "buy down," or lower, the effective interest rate paid by the home buyer.

State agencies often offer lower rate loans. But to qualify, borrowers usually must be a first-time homebuyer and meet income limits based on the median income level of their county.

While the most common way of obtaining a buydown is by paying extra points up front, many mortgage companies now increase the note rate to cover the cost in later years.

How does it work, and are there different types of buydowns?

The most common is the 2-1 buydown, which oftentimes costs 3 additional points above current market points.

It works like this: During the first year of the mortgage, the interest rate is reduced by 2 percent and 1 percent the second year. So if you get a 7 percent interest rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage, you’d pay 5 percent the first year, 6 percent the second year, and 7 percent for the remaining life of the loan.

Another option is the 3-2-1 buydown. This reduces the mortgage rate 3 percent the first year, 2 percent the second and 1 percent the third. Thereafter you pay the full rate.

Some programs are “flex-fixed” buydowns that increase interest at six-month intervals instead of annually.

My $.02

When it comes to home financing there are three factors I always point out as the most important for my customers:

1. Income

2. Savings

3. Debt

These three factors determine buying power. And the bottom line equals net worth. High net worth buyers with cash are king. Always have been always will be when it comes to winning in real estate transactions.

Licensed to sell. Get Moved with Lauren. Call 805-291-0867 or message me at m.me/laurenhowardrealestateandtravel for a private consultation.
DRE#01153902
Equal Housing Opportunity

l For example, a flex-fixed jumbo buydown might cost you 1.5 points. The first six months, your rate would be 7.5 percent. The next six months would be 8 percent, the next 8.5, then 9 percent

Customers and Friends, Happy Mother's Day.

2026-04-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted May 8, 2025

To our Customers and Friends – Let us take this opportunity to say Thank You and wish you All the Best this Mother's Day Weekend

Share the Fun Share the Savings Spring Virtual Pampered Chef Party

Hosted by your broker and Pampered Chef Consultant, Lauren Howard

Join on Table with Name and Email

Springtime is Real Estate selling time. Longer days, summer vacation coming up, markets settling? Visiting neighborhoods and performing valuations for customers is the wheelhouse. If you need to sell, get to the front of the line by replying to this email. We notice when emails are looked at or the website is visited...the webmaster calls them hand raises. Analytics are awesome! But meeting with homeowners, previewing properties, and marketing and selling homes has top priority.

Staying put? Great! Shop for some Pampered Chef with us. Invite friends! Know anyone who is recently engaged? Pampered Chef has a wonderful Wedding Registry Party program. Log into the current party. Click around and have fun!

Shop Smart at Farmers' Markets...and My $.02

2026-04-02T13:02:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Apr 30, 2025

Shop Smart at Farmers' Markets

l Buy only the amount you can use in a short period of time.

l Look for produce that’s free from unusual odors or colors and signs of spoilage.

l Handle produce gently to reduce bruising. Bacteria can thrive in the bruised areas.

l When buying cut produce, keep it cold during transport.

l Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before handling produce.

l Wash all fruits and vegetables with cool running tap water right before eating. Don't use dish soap or detergent because the FDA hasn’t approved or labeled these products for use on foods.

l Scrub melons with a brush and running water, because bacteria can be transferred from the outside of the melon to the inside by a knife.

l Cut away bruised parts before eating. Remove the outer leaves from lettuce and cabbage.

l Keep fresh cut produce cold by placing serving containers on ice. Perishable food should spend no more than two hours in the "danger zone" (40 to 140oF).

l Store produce in containers that are free from excess liquid.

l Refrigerate cut produce and use within a few days.

My $.02

Excellent health and fitness all begins and ends at the grocery store. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains (more than 3g fiber on label), lean protein, good fats (avocado, olive oil...etc.) are the only categories we need in the cart or to eat anytime for that matter. Don't stuff yourself. Is this how you eat?

Make it a habit to remind yourself as you walk into the grocery store that the things you stock in your kitchen are going to make you or break you. Starting at the farmer's market and ending at the grocery store to fill in the odds and ends is best. Here is the Santa Barbara County breakdown from Google AI:

Santa Barbara has six Certified Farmers' Markets operating six days a week, offering fresh produce, local goods, and more. These markets are located in various areas, including Montecito, Santa Barbara Downtown, Goleta, Old Town Santa Barbara, Solvang, and Carpinteria. The market days and times vary, with some markets operating in the morning and others in the afternoon.

Here's a breakdown of the markets and their schedules:
Montecito: Fridays, 8 AM - 11:15 AM
Santa Barbara Downtown: Saturdays, 8 AM - 1 PM
Goleta: Sundays, 10 AM - 2 PM
Solvang: Wednesdays, 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Carpinteria: Thursdays, 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Old Town Santa Barbara: Tuesdays, 3 PM - 6:30 PM

And Now my real question is...Don't we still have a farmer's market in Lompoc on Fridays? 2pm in oldtown right? Going to have to check it out this Friday!! Reply with the details if there is a good story :)

Happy Easter Weekend to my Customers and Friends

2026-04-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Apr 18, 2025

To our Customers and Friends – Let us take this opportunity to say Thank You and wish you All the Best this Holiday Season

Happy Easter Egg Cake!!!
Follow this link to the recipe: https://www.pamperedchef.com/.../Easter+Egg+Cake/1090513

Small Batter Bowl
Item Number: 2432

1-cup Prep Bowl Set
Item Number: 1825

Decorating Bag Set
Item Number: 100844

Set the Right Rent or Wing it!

2026-04-02T12:57:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Mar 18, 2025

Set the Right Rent

The best place to start is by checking your Sunday newspaper for the range of rent prices in your area.

In trendy areas, there is a constant demand for rentals. Still, if your property is in such an area, common sense dictates property with repair or maintenance issues won’t demand the same price as a well-maintained property.

Amenities like dishwashers, laundry facilities, and parking can affect a renter's decision.

Join an apartment owners association to learn of trends affecting rental rates. Many also offer advice on pricing and management issues.

When you decide on a price, err on the high side — it’s easier to lower prices than raise them. Offer incentives when the market is soft, like a free month of cable TV.

My $.02

I love my marketing partner because they have good old timey real estate articles I get to share from their library...makes for a good riff. The best way to find out what people are renting for is on Craigslist now....if you know a better place...Thank you very much in advance for replying to this email and letting me know.

One thing I am noticing is that the flippers are advancing on long term investors in terms of raising the quality of the inventory. I LOVE HDTV. The trendy fixtures and finishes and the open concept hardscaping indoors is a wave...I cannot wait to see what's next.

I love Linda P's Realty411. She has got it going on with the vendors she hosts with around the country. For some it may seem like a travelling circus because they are so over the top with the real estate strategies and what I like to call snake oil that has entertained and bilked as many investors as it has made millionaires. There is nothing new under the sun..

I worked in property management offices in sales twice. Once early on in my career and another time more recently. There are always equity crunches in different sections of the real estate market. Flippers might graduate to be long term investors but it is rarely the other way around. What innovations will long term investors be bringing to the new market? I'm going to keep watching Magnolia Network with bated breathe and with you as my best client and Santa Barbara County as the best backdrop for any real estate entertainment program...we can wing it.

Outline Your Fitness Plan

2026-04-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Mar 10, 2025

Outline Your Fitness Plan

Many people treat their health like a bingo game—if they hit the numbers, fine. If not, well, that’s the breaks. But you have control over your fitness, and you must outline a program in order to gain maximum benefits. The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports website points to lifelong commitment as key in getting and staying fit. “Exercise must become one of those things that you do without question, like bathing and brushing your teeth,” according to the PCPFS website.

The PCPFS defines fitness this way: "The ability to perform daily tasks vigorously and alertly, with energy left over for enjoying leisure-time activities and meeting emergency demands. It is the ability to endure, to bear up, to withstand stress, to carry on in circumstances where an unfit person could not continue, and is a major basis for good health and well-being.

“Physical fitness involves the performance of the heart and lungs, and the muscles of the body. And, since what we do with our bodies also affects what we can do with our minds, fitness influences to some degree qualities such as mental alertness and emotional stability.”

You know what the benefits of creating a fitness program are, but we’ll list them anyway:

l Heart health: Regular physical activity can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and can reduce the risk of illnesses such as Type II diabetes or heart disease.

l Bone support: Exercise is a good way to build strong, healthy bones and can help slow the bone loss associated with getting older.

l Sense of well-being: Being in good shape can give you more energy, reduce anxiety and depression, improve self-esteem, and help you better manage stress.

l Social life: Staying active is a great way to have fun, make new friends, and spend quality time with family.

l Physical appearance: You look better when you're in shape. Staying active helps you tone muscles and maintain a healthy weight - and can even improve your posture.

How to begin? First off, if you’re over 35 and have been inactive for several years, you should check with your doctor before starting an exercise program. S/he may recommend a graded exercise test. If you have any of the following conditions you need to check with your doctor: High blood pressure; heart trouble; family history of early stroke or heart attack deaths; frequent dizzy spells; extreme breathlessness after mild exertion; arthritis or other bone problems; severe muscular, ligament or tendon problems; other known or suspected disease.

The components of physical fitness include four different areas, and each should be considered when putting together your program:

l Cardiorespiratory Endurance - the ability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues, and to remove wastes, over sustained periods of time. Long runs and swims are among the methods employed in measuring this component.

l Muscular Strength - the ability of a muscle to exert force for a brief period of time. Upper-body strength, for example, can be measured by various weight-lifting exercises.

l Muscular Endurance - the ability of a muscle, or a group of muscles, to sustain repeated contractions or to continue applying force against a fixed object. Pushups are often used to test endurance of arm and shoulder muscles.

l Flexibility - the ability to move joints and use muscles through their full range of motion. The sit-and- reach test is a good measure of flexibility of the lower back and backs of the upper legs.

l Body Composition is often considered a component of fitness. It refers to the makeup of the body in terms of lean mass (muscle, bone, vital tissue and organs) and fat mass. An optimal ratio of fat to lean mass is an indication of fitness, and the right types of exercises will help you decrease body fat and increase or maintain muscle mass.

Your exercise program should include something from each of the four basic areas, and each day should begin with a warmup and end with a cooldown. Space your workouts throughout the week and try not to put in consecutive days of hard exercise.

l Warmup: Five to ten minutes of low-intensity exercise such as walking or general movement to get the muscles warmed up and elastic.

l Muscular strength: Two 20-minute sessions per week of weight training is the minimum for increasing strength.

l Muscular endurance: Three 30-minute sessions per week with such exercises as calisthenics, pushups, situps, pull-ups and weight training for all the major muscle groups.

l Cardiorespiratory endurance: At least three 20-minute sessions of continuous aerobic, rhythmic exercise each week, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, jumping rope, rowing, cross-country skiing, etc.

l Flexibility: Ten to fifteen minutes of slow, non-bouncing daily stretching exercises can be included in your warmup and/or cooldown.

l Cooldown: Five to ten minutes of low-intensity exercise to cool your muscles down slowly to avoid injury.

My $.02

As much as I would love to think that my cupcake diet is working the scale has given me irrefutable evidence that denim told me over a year ago. I could stand to lose a few. My screen name alfasunshine doesn't come from just anywhere. I was a Beachbody coach when they went MLM back in the day way before they went public. I had a close family member accuse me of being a Tony Horton groupie...ok he knows how to make really good accusations. As Andy Roddick is quoted in saying when he was courting his lady love...it isn't stalking if they like it. I happened to be waiting with baited breath for Power90 Masters Series to come out as Tony was lamenting the initial failure of P90X. It came around and got kinda popular later. But I was lucky to be in that fantastic group of Beachbody followers that were the first customers...1508? Something like that...They had fabulous live experts that inspired me to do my first half marathon and then taught me about my personal nutritional needs. Magical times online...alfasunshine was my screen name. So I am pushing my cardio in the wonderful circuit training manner that became famous through P90x and others. I still have my DVD's for Insanity...digging that deep is going to be interesting...More to come!!!

Buying Property In Mexico? Take me with you...

2026-04-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Feb 19, 2025 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/buying-property-in-mexico--take-me-with-you-?ts=blg

Buying Property In Mexico

Foreigners can’t own Mexican property in the restricted zone (32 miles from high tide and 64 miles from any border) outright. Instead, a real estate trust (fideicomiso) is executed between a Mexican bank and the seller of property in the restricted zone. The bank acts on behalf of the foreign buyer, buying and taking title to the property. The foreign buyer retains all rights of ownership.

First, all foreigners are required to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Next, to open your trust account, you’ll need your accepted offer for purchase, a photo ID and 10 percent of the purchase price of your new home. Do not give money to anyone other than a bank escrow representative when you sign a bank contract.

Closing usually takes 30-45 days.

My $.02

I had no idea. If you haven't noticed, I have a wonderful marketing partner that has a fabulous library of blog posts. I wouldn't call it AI, but I would call it super cool.

...I would love to experience this Mexican buying process and I love to travel.

Mind Maps, SBIFF, and SBCC by Lauren Howard RE

2026-04-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

Originally Posted Feb 3, 2025 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/mind-maps-sbiff-and-sbcc-by-lauren-howard-re?ts=blg

Mind Maps

What is a mind map? It’s a tool used to organize thoughts, options, possibilities. The origins are attributed to everyone from Tony Buzan (who wrote The Mind Map Book) to Edward Debono, a world-renowned psychologist and behaviorist. Most importantly, a mind map is a tool to get people thinking outside the box – or in this case, outside the list.

So how do we make a mind map? It’s a good idea to start with a large work surface, such as a piece of poster board – that way you’ll have plenty of room to work with. With a mind map, we start from the middle of the page as opposed to the traditional top left-hand corner, which helps us out of the box from the get-go. It also allows you to work out in all directions. This organizational structure actually reflects the way your own brain organizes ideas.

Try writing keywords on small yellow sticky notes to attach to the map to start so you won’t feel pressured to get it “right.” You’ll want to use plenty of color to help your visual memory. You can also draw pictures, attach photos, even cut pictures out of magazines to put on your map to help with the visual aspect. The possibilities are truly endless – and changeable. Don’t feel once you’ve filled the page that all is written in stone. This is a fluid, dynamic document.

On www.peterussell.com, you can find some pointers to make an effective mind map:

· Use just key words, or wherever possible, images.

· Start from the center of the page and work out.

· Make the center a clear and strong visual image that depicts the general theme of the map.

· Create sub-centers for sub-themes.

· Put key words on lines. This reinforces structure of notes.

· Print rather than write in script. It makes them more readable and memorable. Lower case is more visually distinctive (and better remembered) than upper case.

· Use color to depict themes, associations and to make things stand out.

· Anything that stands out on the page will stand out in your mind.

· Think three-dimensionally.

· Use arrows, icons or other visual aids to show links between different elements.

· Don't get stuck in one area. If you dry up in one area go to another branch.

· Put ideas down as they occur, wherever they fit. Don't judge or hold back.

· Break boundaries. If you run out of space, don't start a new sheet; paste more paper onto the map. (Break the 8x11 mentality.)

· Be creative. Creativity aids memory.

· Get involved. Have fun.

My $.02

Or you could attend a lecture by SBCC film professor and executive director for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Roger Durling is the mastermind behind all of the success that the Santa Barbara International Film Festival has garnered. Last year I was fortunate to attend for the first time through my participation as a student in the class offered by SBCC. Another professor taught the class, but Roger Durling was ever present in the mornings at the individual theatres to introduce a film, at midday to speak to our class one day, and every evening at the Arlington Theatre, where there is always a blockbuster interview and retrospect of an illustrious filmmaker's or actor's career who is being honored.

I am certain you or someone you know has attended the SBIFF on many occasions. I learned about Toronto and Canne and a few other famous festivals waiting in line for movies from all over the globe. There were lectures by first time female directors and documentarians. In his talk with us Roger Durling explained how the SBIFF has blossomed into the golden festival that attracts huge Hollywood attention by being on the calendar just before the Academy Awards.

This year I will be getting back to gardening. But it was fun and interesting to be a cinephile for a semester in Spring 2024.

Condo, PUD, Co-op: What's the Difference? PC Too

2026-04-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

Condo, PUD, Co-op: What's the Difference?

Condos: Walls, floors, and ceilings owned by all residents; HOA dues; covenants, conditions, and restrictions; value depends on the desirability of entire development.

Originally Posted Jan 22, 2025

Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/condo-pud-coop-whats-the-difference-pc-too?ts=blg

Planned Unit Development (PUD): Individuals own structure and some land.

Co-op: Corporation made up of all tenants; larger units have more power in how building is run; fees for taxes, mortgage, repair, improvement; heavy scrutiny of financial, personal history.

Townhome: Not a form of ownership, but a term for an attached row house.

Advantages of each: Prices often lower than for single-family home; maintenance minimal or nonexistent; safety in “cluster” environment.

Disadvantages: HOA dues; CCRs may be complex.

My $.02

I renew again this year!!

I finished my 45 hours of continuing education to renew my license this year....Yay!! The California Association of Realtors offered a FREE 45 hour continuing education package this go around. Got to say it was a lot more rigorous than the First Tuesday packages I have bought in the past. I know more about California Water laws now. And the updated fair housing materials are heart breaking, but I am a glad that the information has been so graphically updated with statistics and case studies. The trust fund handling and risk management material and a few other hours like property management are cemented into my real estate lexicon. I had to read and re-read some of the environmental hazards and new green and modular building standards that have been growing in our market place.

I think the 45 hour FREE California Association of Realtors course work material was awesome, but it seemed like a lot more than 45 hours!

Pampered Chef on the Road

My Shared Rewards Party is ending soon. We need four more orders to reach our goal, can you help with an order? here's the shopping link: https://www.pamperedchef.com/party/rewardsharedbylauren

Order NOW. Party closes January 27 at 5pm PST

Happiness and Prosperity Pampered Chef Party

2026-04-01T18:32:00.000-07:00

Originally posted Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/happiness-and-prosperity-pampered-chef-party?ts=blg Jan 2, 2025

May Happiness and Prosperity be yours in the New Year. I hope to see and speak to all of you in 2025.

I joined Pampered Chef last year shopping for my dear son's wedding gift. I love selling real estate and Pampered Chef has a wonderful product and awesome sales people.

Shop Now
pamperedchef.com/pws/laurenhoward/shop-landing-page

Host a Party
pamperedchef.com/pws/laurenhoward/pws-host-a-party

If you have any real estate questions I have answered. I just finished my 45 hours of continuing education for my California real estate licensing renewal. I know a lot of stuff. I don't like to give away my age, but I was giving birth to my son about the time I was studying for my first real estate license. I love selling homes in Santa Barbara County. I have set a goal to sell 25 homes this year...Happy 2025!! With this goal in place there is a higher chance that I will be talking to you and seeing you this year. I am looking forward to it :)

Healthy Aging

2026-03-22T10:41:57.370-07:00

Originally published Dec 5, 2024 Here. https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/healthy-aging?ts=blg

Healthy Aging

Healthy aging has several key components: Good physical health; possession of basic resources (housing, food); good social network; sense of purpose; and engaging in activities such as volunteering, working, and hobbies or interests.

Make a list called 100 Things I Want To Do (before I die…). The list helps to uncover past dreams, wishes and activities or interests they haven't pursued in a while. What if age weren’t a factor? What if you weren’t afraid of seeming foolish? What if you had the resources and energy to make your dreams come true? Movies need older extras. Skydiving can be done at any age with good health. Why not get a college degree now? Forget about what is “expected” of older people, and follow your heart’s desire.

My $0.02

I am a school girl from way back. This semester I decided to take Interior Design 100 at Santa Barbara City College. I do not want to say that the class kicked my butt, but the class kicked my butt and and I am ever so glad it is ending and I hope I passed.

One of the 100 things I want to do before I die is write a novel. This class if nothing else gave me great fodder or the drama of aging and fitting in in a classroom setting. I love real estate, but I cannot draw worth a lick! The multifaceted profession of interior design is all encompassing and more like interior architecture. Drafting is a requirement. Like I said...so glad I took the class and met the talented professor and all of the amazing students, and I hope I get a good grade!

Capital Gains Exclusions

2026-03-22T10:34:43.887-07:00

Originally Posted

Nov 8, 2024 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/capital-gains-exclusions?ts=blg

Capital Gains Exclusions

Determining your principal residence according to the IRS for tax purposes if you own more than one home can be tricky, but the IRS continues to refine the rules. First of all, principal residence can take many forms: conventional home, condominium, mobile home, house trailer, tenant-stockholder cooperative housing unit—even a boat, as long as it has sleeping, cooking and sanitary facilities (a bathroom).

The difficulties arise when you split your time between two different properties during a year. Simply put, the IRS says that your principal residence is the home you own and use as a residence for “a majority of the time during the year.”

But of course, there are other considerations. For instance:

l the location of your property in relation to your place of employment.

l the location where your family members reside.

l the address you use on your federal and state tax returns, driver’s license, automobile registration and voter registration card.

l the mailing address you use predominantly for bills and correspondence.

l the location of your banks.

l the location, believe it or not, of your “religious organizations and recreational clubs.”

" My $.02: I am looking for a room to rent. I have found a new conflict of interest. Investors who rent out rooms to maximize their return on investment are popping up everywhere. The best of the bunch this week was a gentleman who owned 4 or more homes. Big grey areas in the capital gains tax code make conservative CPA's I've attended lunch and learns with very nervous. Interpretation and such can be treacherous when maximizing tax advantages....stretching the rules, ok...just don't tell me about it! A landlord's sketchy tax strategies is not a comfortable talking point for a prospective tenant."

To add another complication, but one that can work in your favor: You can switch the designation from house to house each year according to your personal tax strategies. For instance, if you own a house in Nebraska and a condo in Aspen, and the condo has appreciated substantially, you’ll want to pocket as much as possible of that gain tax-free through a sale.

You can do this by making your Aspen vacation condo your principal residence for two years running by living in it more than six months each year. That qualifies the condo for the maximum capital gains exclusion of $250,000 for single filers or $500,000 for joint filers if you sell the following year.

You then switch your principal residence back to your house in Nebraska. By living in it and using it for a majority of the time during the two years following the condo sale, it should qualify for the maximum capital gains exclusion.

Also, thanks to the 1997 legislation, you no longer have to be concerned with replacing your residence with another house with an equal or higher purchase price within a certain time frame. No replacement residence is required now. Fixing-up expenses are no longer a factor in determining the deferred gain with respect to a principal residence. The bad news: taxpayers over age 55 are no longer eligible to exclude $125,000 of gain from the sale of a principal residence.

As for the capital gains exclusions mentioned above, they apply to one sale or exchange every two years. And the home is not required to be the principal residence at the time of purchase or sale, but it must meet ownership and use tests: you must have owned the residence as a principal residence for a total of at least two of the five years before the sale or exchange, and you must have occupied the residence for a total of at least two of the five years before the sale or exchange.

For married folks, filing a joint tax return will qualify for the $500,000 exclusion on the joint return provided either spouse meets the ownership test, both spouses meet the use test and neither spouse is ineligible for exclusion because he or she made a sale of exchange of a residence within the last two years. For those marrieds who don’t qualify for the $500,000 exclusion, they may still use the $250,000 exclusion, or a prorated exclusion, if either spouse meets the ownership and use requirements.

Widowed spouses selling a residence generally are only eligible for the $250,000 exclusion on their tax returns filed as a single person, surviving spouse, or head of household. However, they may be eligible for the $500,000 exclusion if the residence is sold during the year of the death of spouse, provided the sale is reported on a final joint return.

If a taxpayer doesn’t meet the ownership or residence requirements, a pro-rata amount of the $250,000 or $500,000 exclusion applies if the sale or exchange is due to a change in place of employment, health, or unforeseen circumstances. The amount of the available exclusion is equal to $250,000 or $500,000 multiplied by a fraction equal to the shorter of the number of months of the total of periods during which the ownership and use requirements were met during the five-year period ending on the date of sale, or the period after the date of the most recent sale or exchange to which the exclusion applied divided by 24 months.

Seller's Guide September 2024, CAR

2026-03-22T10:31:47.927-07:00

Originally published Nov 8, 2024 Here:https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/sellers-guide-september-2024-car?ts=blg

The price per square foot stat makes me want to look at building something. It's got to be cheaper.

Buyer's Guide September 2024, CAR

2026-03-22T10:26:29.474-07:00

Originally posted

Nov 8, 2024 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/buyers-guide-september-2024-car?ts=blg

There is a lot of equity in the market. Santa Barbara County home owners are big thinkers or they know how to whip out a calculator. The numbers are always getting bigger.

I Love Professional Tennis!

2026-03-22T10:23:44.080-07:00

Originally posted Oct 13, 2024 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/i-love-professional-tennis?ts=blg

Blog post 10/6/2024 Watching Tennis

I'm watching the replay of Nole's first match at the ATP Shanghai Open. I was fortunate to see him play live once at Indian Wells. I have been taking photos of the TV since then. 🤣 The first set tie break was a symphony of exquisite execution. And that's about how his poor young American opponent must have been feeling, executed.

It's like the Champion gives the guy a fair chance to show off their own prowess, but once he knows their limit it is over. It takes monumental effort for his opponent to win a piont from the point Nole sets his mind to winning every point. You can almost see his foot in the sand moment and the subtle added intensity in his ball bounces.

I ❤️Nole
#NovakDjokovic
#Shanghai2024
#tvpics
#thankgoodness for #foggy #Sunday

93 Days until Christmas...Seller and Buyer Tips.

2026-03-22T10:20:39.966-07:00

Originally Posted Sep 23, 2024 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/93-days-until-christmasseller-and-buyer-tips?ts=blg

I am grateful for the opportunity to work with buyer's and sellers...especially during the holidays. Selling during the holidays may bring the opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the Spring when many more homes are on the market for less money. This allows you to sell high and buy low.

CAR August Santa Barbara County Market Stats.

2026-03-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

Originally posted

Sep 20, 2024 Here: https://www.homessantabarbaracounty.com/blog/car-august-santa-barbara-county-market-stats?ts=blg

Get used to the numbers. Prices, especially at the tip top of the market are skewing way up.